Ideas outlined for future of city centre landmark

The Grade II* listed Guildhall in Peterborough city centre is currently unused

A historical building in a city centre could be turned into a performance space, tourist centre or information point.

Peterborough City Council is exploring possible future uses for the Guildhall in Cathedral Square.

Council leader Mohammed Farooq of Peterborough First said £40,000 would be spent on determining a strategy for the building, which could be refurbished with a glass structure and a new staircase or lift.

The Grade II* listed building was completed in 1671 and used to host markets in its open-air ground floor, while the first floor was used as an assembly room to make decisions about the city.

Council leader Councillor Mohammed Farooq said he wanted to maximise the Guildhall's use

A public survey seeking ideas for the Guildhall and other buildings in Peterborough is open until 28 March.

Mr Farooq said he wanted to see the landmark made available to the community.

"We’re trying to get maximum use of it. We want to use it much more for events and markets," he said.

A viability assessment of the building is expected to take three months before a business case is put forward to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority to seek funding.